Tourists urged to avoid Munnar travel on NH-85 due to landslide threat

The heavy rainfall in Kerala, which has increased the risk of landslides in the high ranges, has prompted the Idukki District Collector to ask tourists to avoid travelling to Munnar via the Kochi–Dhanushkodi National Highway (NH-85).

Traffic restrictions have been imposed on the highway near the CSI Church in Moolakadai following a recent landslide. The Collector said tourists should avoid using this route as far as possible until the weather improves.

Residents were also evacuated from a building that developed cracks following the incident near the CSI church. Police and Motor Vehicles Department officials have been deployed to regulate traffic in the affected area. Authorities warned that ongoing heavy rain has increased the risk of landslides at several locations along the national highway where construction work is in progress.

The District Collector also directed officials to install adequate warning boards in vulnerable areas. A hazard analyst from the Disaster Management Authority has been assigned to inspect the site, assess the disaster risk, and submit a detailed report.

Alternative route
Meanwhile, there is an alternative for those travelling from the Kochi side. Travellers can take the Old Munnar Road and take a right at the 'Sujata Inn' junction to the Devikulam route to reach Munnar Town.